Marie Curie is the UK’s leading end-of-life charity. We are the largest non-NHS provider of end-of-life care in the UK, the only provider across all 4 nations, delivering community nursing and hospice care across the country, while providing information and support on all aspects of dying, death, and bereavement. Our leading research pushes the boundaries of what we know about good end-of-life, and our campaigns fight for a world where everyone gets to have the best possible quality of life while living with an illness, they’re likely to die from.
Job Description
Philanthropy will play a defining role in delivering this ambition. With plans to significantly scale income over the coming years, we are seeking a senior, commercially-minded Philanthropy Lead to drive high-value growth and deepen engagement with influential supporters across the UK.
As Philanthropy Lead, you will take ownership of a high-value donor portfolio, securing and stewarding five and six figure gifts while driving forward a donor-centric fundraising strategy.
You will operate as a trusted partner to senior leaders and influential stakeholders, leveraging networks, insight and opportunity to build a sustainable pipeline of philanthropic support.
Alongside income generation, you will play a key role in shaping how Marie Curie engages high-net-worth individuals bringing innovation, credibility and strategic thinking to a growing function.
What you’ll be doing
- Building a pipeline of new high-net-worth individuals through proactive outreach, networking and relationship building
- Owning and driving your own workload, managing your prospect pipeline and identifying new opportunities
- Initiating conversations, arranging face-to-face meetings and creating bespoke cultivation journeys
- Working closely with senior leaders and volunteers to develop and progress donor relationships
- Developing compelling propositions and confidently making five and six-figure asks
- Using creativity, curiosity and insight to spot opportunities others might miss
- Representing Marie Curie externally and helping grow our profile with influential audiences
Who we’re looking for
- Proven experience in major donor or philanthropy fundraising
- A proven record of securing significant philanthropic income, including five and six figure gifts
- The credibility and presence to engage and influence high-net-worth individuals and senior stakeholders
- Strong commercial judgement combined with a donor-centric, relationship-led approach
- Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling cases for support and lead high-value conversations
- Strategic thinking, resilience and the ability to navigate complexity and ambiguity
- A collaborative mindset, with the confidence to contribute across a high-performing national team
You don’t need to come from a traditional charity major gifts background transferable experience from relationship-led, high-value environments is welcome.
Application & Interview Process
As part of your online application, you will be asked for a CV and a set of questions. Please review both the advert and job description and outline your most relevant skills, experience and knowledge for the role.
Salary: Circa £45,000
Contract: Full time, perm
Based: Hybrid position, with 1–2 days per week based in Marie Curie offices or hospices, including some travel as required.
Benefits you’ll LOVE:
- Flexible working. We’re happy to discuss flexible working at the interview stage.
- 25 days annual leave (exclusive of
We’re Hiring: Philanthropy Lead - Scotland in Edinburgh employer: Marie Curie
Marie Curie is an exceptional employer, offering a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the UK's leading end-of-life charity. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, flexible working arrangements, and continuous professional development, staff are empowered to grow in their roles while making a significant impact on the lives of those facing terminal illness. The inclusive work culture fosters diversity and collaboration, ensuring that every voice is valued as we strive to provide the best possible care and support.
